“If working him out of the way could be presented in the light of a service to Mr. Boffin?”

“Take time, Sophronia.”

“We have remarked lately, Alfred, that the old man is turning very suspicious and distrustful.”

“Miserly too, my dear; which is far the most unpromising for us. Nevertheless, take time, Sophronia, take time.”

She took time and then said:

“Suppose we should address ourselves to that tendency in him of which we have made ourselves quite sure. Suppose my conscience⁠—”

“And we know what a conscience it is, my soul. Yes?”